THE MISSION OF THE DISCIPLES

THE MISSION OF THE DISCIPLES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 9:1-6

Key Verse: “Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.” — Luke 9:1

Supporting Texts: Matthew 10:1-14, Mark 6:7-13, Acts 1:8, 2 Corinthians 5:20, Exodus 4:12

Description: God equips and empowers every believer He sends on a divine assignment.

INTRODUCTION

God is a God of mission. Throughout Scripture, He calls, equips, and sends individuals to accomplish His purposes on earth. The work of the Kingdom is not left to human ability alone; it is carried out through divine empowerment. When God sends a person, He also provides the authority and resources needed for the assignment.

In Luke 9:1-6, Jesus called His twelve disciples, gave them power and authority, and sent them out to preach the Kingdom of God and heal the sick. This moment marked a transition from being mere followers to becoming active participants in ministry. They were not sent empty-handed; they were equipped with divine power.

This passage teaches that every believer has a mission. God’s call comes with empowerment, responsibility, and the expectation of obedience. When we respond to His call, we become instruments through which His power is revealed.

1. GOD CALLS BEFORE HE SENDS

Divine assignment begins with a divine call.

a) The Gathering of the Disciples (Luke 9:1)
Jesus called the twelve to Himself before sending them out. Relationship precedes assignment.

b) Intimacy Before Ministry (Mark 3:14)
They were first appointed to be with Him. Time with God prepares us for service.

c) Personal Calling (Jeremiah 1:5)
God knows and calls individuals for specific purposes.

d) Responding to the Call (Isaiah 6:8)
Willingness to respond is essential for fulfilling God’s plan.

Biblical Example: Moses was called by God at the burning bush before being sent to deliver Israel (Exodus 3:10-12).

2. GOD EMPOWERS THOSE HE SENDS

Divine assignment is backed by divine power.

a) Power and Authority Given (Luke 9:1)
Jesus gave them authority over demons and diseases.

b) Dependence on God’s Strength (Zechariah 4:6)
Success in ministry is not by might or power but by God’s Spirit.

c) Equipped for Every Good Work (2 Timothy 3:17)
God equips His servants with everything needed.

d) The Role of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8)
The Spirit empowers believers to be effective witnesses.

Biblical Example: The apostles operated in power after receiving the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4).

3. OBEDIENCE AND SIMPLICITY ARE REQUIRED

God expects trust and obedience from those He sends.

a) Travelling Light (Luke 9:3)
Jesus instructed them to take nothing, teaching dependence on God.

b) Trusting God’s Provision (Matthew 6:33)
God provides for those who prioritise His Kingdom.

c) Contentment in Assignment (Luke 9:4)
They were to remain where they were received, avoiding distraction.

d) Faithful Representation (Colossians 3:23)
Serving God requires diligence and sincerity.

Biblical Example: Elijah depended on God’s provision through ravens and a widow during famine (1 Kings 17:4-9).

4. THE MESSAGE MUST BE PROCLAIMED WITH RESULTS

God’s mission includes both proclamation and demonstration.

a) Preaching the Kingdom (Luke 9:2)
The disciples were sent to proclaim God’s Kingdom.

b) Healing the Sick (Luke 9:2)
The message was confirmed with signs and wonders.

c) Accountability in Reception (Luke 9:5)
Those who rejected the message faced consequences.

d) Impact Through Obedience (Luke 9:6)
The disciples went everywhere, preaching and healing.

Biblical Example: Philip preached in Samaria, and miracles accompanied his message, bringing great joy to the city (Acts 8:5–8).

CONCLUSION

God does not send anyone without equipping them. The same God who called the disciples has called believers today to represent Him and carry His message to the world. His power is available to accomplish His purposes through you.

Respond to God’s call with faith and obedience. Trust in His empowerment, depend on His provision, and boldly carry out your assignment. As you do, you will see His power manifest in your life and ministry.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, help me to recognise and respond to Your call in Jesus name.

2. Lord, empower me with authority to fulfil my divine assignment in Jesus name.

3. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to depend fully on God in Jesus name.

4. Father, teach me obedience in every instruction You give in Jesus name.

5. Lord, provide all I need for my mission in Jesus name.

6. Father, let Your power be evident in my life and ministry in Jesus name.

7. Lord, help me to preach and demonstrate Your Kingdom effectively in Jesus name.

8. Father, remove every fear that hinders me from fulfilling my assignment in Jesus name.

9. Lord, make me a faithful representative of Christ in Jesus name.

10. Father, let my life bring glory to You through impactful service in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You shall walk in the fullness of your divine calling and assignment.

2. You shall be empowered with authority over every opposition.

3. Your life shall reflect God’s power and presence.

4. You shall not lack anything needed for your mission.

5. You shall operate in boldness and confidence in God.

6. Your ministry shall produce visible and lasting results.

7. You shall impact lives and bring glory to God.

8. Every limitation hindering your assignment is removed.

9. You shall be a vessel of honour in God’s Kingdom.

10. From today, you shall fulfil your divine purpose with excellence and power.